SCHENECTADY,NY–Doctor Iftikhar Syed and his wife were recently honored at the Ellisâ€™ Hospitalâ€™s 9th annual winter gala at the Glen Sanders Mansion.

Doctor Syed has been chief of surgery at Ellis since 1995. Dr. Syed has improved the lives of thousands of area residents over the past 30 years as a leading surgeon. As Chief of Surgery at Ellis since 1995, Dr. Syed is known for his dedication to quality and innovation in general surgery, advanced laparoscopic and breast surgery and has been an advocate for the new robotic technology now offered at Ellis.

Suzann Smart, Executive Director of the Foundation for Ellis Medicine said, â€œDr. Syed has been chief of surgery for more than three decades at Ellis. He is a fabulous surgeon. I can speak from firsthand experience about his wonderful care. But the staff particularly appreciates is his care and compassion for the patient and their families. And heâ€™s been an innovator throughout his career at Ellis and weâ€™re very proud to recognize him here tonight.â€

The winter gala will raise more than $100,000 to support Ellis Hospitalâ€™s services and programs this year. Since 2004, the event has raised $1 million to benefit the hospital.